NFL Draft 2010 Player Profile: Maurkice Pouncey, Florida Center

Size and Statistics: 6-foot-5, 318 pounds. Started 39 of 41 games at Florida in three seasons. Won 2009 Rimington Trophy as nation’s best center.

Strengths: Starting the last two years at center, Pouncey has had to deal with the SEC elite defenses. He fires off the ball and stays low in his stance. Pouncey has the ability to move his first assignment and get up field to the second level. Very fast lineman.

Weaknesses: Florida’s zone blocking scheme could put Pouncey at a disadvantage if put into a man blocking scheme. Pouncey only spent two years as a center and his freshman and high school years at guard. Also, Pouncey is not used to a quarterback under center. Might be a better guard as a pro.

Character: One of the beloved Pouncey twins with brother Mike, Maurkice has never been a problem for the Gators. When their father lost his leg in a train accident shortly before the FSU game in 2008, the Pounceys became more focused on winning and a source of inspiration for the whole team. Maurkice’s leadership was essential for the Gators.

Where will he go: Pick 34 to Detroit.